UCSD Guidelines for the
Preparation, Use and Storage of
Urethane
(ethyl carbamate; ethyl urethane; CAS #51-79-6)
Urethane is a long-acting (6-10h) anesthetic used in laboratory animals during procedures of
exceptionally long duration. It is often used for recording procedures where the preservation of
neural transmission and autonomic reflexes is essential.
Urethane has been known to cause adverse post-operative health effects in animals, thus it may
only be used for terminal procedures and with scientific justification. Due to its carcinogenic and
mutagenic properties, Urethane also poses a significant health threat to laboratory personnel.
Pregnant women should avoid working with urethane due to the antimitotic potential of this
compound.
STORAGE REQUIREMENTS
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Material should be stored in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry area.
Material should be locked up, away from unauthorized users. This product should only
be used by persons trained in the safe handling of hazardous chemicals.
Keep away from incompatible materials, ignition sources, oxidizers and sunlight.
Reconstituted urethane should be labeled with the following:
o Name of each content and its expiration date
o Concentration of the final solution
o Date solution was mixed.
o Expiration date of the mixed solution, which is six months from the date the
solution is prepared or the expiration date of the stock drug or diluent used to
make the solution, whichever date is first.
Empty containers must not be washed and re-used for any purpose, but should be
relinquished to EH&S as hazardous waste.
For information on the proper disposal of animal waste and bedding please refer to the
Hazardous Agents section of the approved IACUC protocol.
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Hand Protection
 Nitrile gloves are recommended for incidental exposure. If extended contact is possible,
double gloving is recommended. Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Eye Protection
 If handling urethane outside of a certified fume hood, properly fitting safety glasses with
side shields or safety goggles (ANSI Z-87 approved) are required.
Respiratory Protection
 In order to prevent inhaling the volatized drug, procedures should be conducted inside a
certified fume hood.
 If handling urethane outside of a certified fume hood, a face mask or respirator is
required.
Skin Protection
 Flame resistant lab coats must be worn with sleeves of sufficient length to prevent skin
exposure while wearing gloves.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Waste Disposal
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http://blink.ucsd.edu/safety/research-lab/hazardous-waste/chemical.html
Accidental Exposure
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http://blink.ucsd.edu/safety/emergencies/preparedness/guide.html#Personal-injury
Accidental Spills
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http://blink.ucsd.edu/safety/emergencies/preparedness/guide.html#Chemical-orRadiation-spill
Exposure Control Practices
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http://blink.ucsd.edu/safety/research-lab/chemical/hygiene.html#Exposure-controlpractices.
Fit Testing
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If lab personnel will be using a respirator on either a required or voluntary basis, they
must be trained and fit-tested by EH&S (ehsih@ucsd.edu)
http://blink.ucsd.edu/safety/occupational/PPE/respiratory/index.html